Static Testing vs Dynamic Testing

by ·

When it comes to checking software quality, there are two main ways to test: static and dynamic. Both have their own pros and cons, and the type that is right for you will depend on your specific needs and requirements.

In this article, we will run a comparison between these two options in terms of their definition, features, and use cases. By the end of this post, you should have a good understanding of both and be able to decide which one is right for your project.

What is static testing?

Static testing or SAST is a software examination method in which the assessor executes the program without actually running it. It’s a process that checks the code for potential bugs in a controlled environment.

In other words, the assessment is carried out without running the software, but instead by inspecting the source code, object code, or application binaries for evidence of security flaws, as well as to check if the code meets the requirements.

Features of static testing

To fully understand SAST, it is necessary to identify the features and elements that make it stand out. Here are some features of this process:

  • Identify flaws and problems early in the development process.
  • Ensures a higher level of software quality.
  • It can be done manually or with the help of automated tools.
  • It is a white box testing.
  • Programs do not need to be executed.
  • High likelihood of false positives.
  • Run-time vulnerabilities are not covered.
  • It is a part of the software verification process.

Dynamic app testing

Dynamic application security testing (DAST) is used to determine the quality of an app during actual use. This type of assessment is typically carried out by an external party or by a person or group of people who are not part of the development team. The goal is to determine if there are any problems with the product before it’s released to customers.

Dynamic app testing stimulates when a hacker is trying to discover the weak points in your product.

Features of dynamic application testing

Here are some of the popular features of dynamic application security testing that will help us understand how it works.

  • Assesses the quality of code.
  • Covers run-time vulnerabilities
  • Identifies bugs and limitations at the end of the software development life cycle.
  • Identifies test cases (TC), executes the tests, and reports results.
  • Involves both functional and non-functional testing.
  • It is part of the software validation process.
  • Known as black box testing
  • Software code must be executed to get results.

When to automate application security testing

Application security testing (AST) is an important part of the software development process. It helps ensure that your application is free from vulnerabilities that could be exploited by attackers.

There are many different types of AST, and it can be difficult to know when to automate them.

The following are situations that warrant the use of an application testing tool like the examples at https://aqua-cloud.io/application-testing-tools.

  1. AST can be automated after code changes to ensure that new code does not introduce any new vulnerabilities.
  2. When you want to carry out the same TC on multiple machines simultaneously time, you should use automated tools.
  3. If your application is large and complex, it will likely take a long time to access it manually. In this case, it may be worth automating your assessments so that you can save time in the long run.
  4. Another thing to consider is the frequency of changes to your application. If your application changes frequently, it may be difficult to keep track of the differences. In this case, automating your processes can help you keep up with the changes and ensure that your application is always secure.
  5. There are situations during software assessments where it is necessary to perform the TC in a certain order. You can create the scripts to execute your AST in the desired sequence using automated tools.
  6. Finally, you should also consider your budget when deciding whether to automate. Automation technologies are not cheap, therefore the project must be large enough to warrant the investment.

Conclusion

Ultimately, your unique product requirements will determine when to use static vs dynamic application security testing. For example, if you are set on using specific languages or frameworks, then static analysis might be the best path for you.

For developers or users of multiple languages, doing dynamic analysis will work best. The truth is they are not mutually exclusive. Both can be used together, and the combination of the two could be the best option for your software development needs.

It is critical to stress that AST is best performed by independent experts who can provide you with an unbiased report on your product’s status. Your internal team might be too close to the development process to make objective feedback.

Do you still find yourself confused regarding static application security testing vs dynamic application security testing? Reach out to learn more.

Also, keep in mind, if you are in the market for software development and testing, and you need to organise and optimise the process of security testing to validate your products, — aqua is the name to trust.